Question 1

why does my jaw keep cracking?

Accepted Answer

TMJ: This could be an issue with the temporomandibular joint (tmj). If you just hear a sound while chewing... That is the movement of the condyle of the jaw bone in the joint space. A popping sensation could be a problem with the joint cavity. A pain when chewing or talking could be inflammation of the joint space.

Question 2

my jaw is stiff, is it okay for me to be cracking it?

Accepted Answer

Not good: "Cracking" your jaw will probably make things worse. The cracking is likely a sign of the disk of the jaw joint (TMJ) out of position. This problem is often progressive resulting in increasing pain, limited oral headaches, neck pain and other problems. The best solution is to see a TMJ expert. Ask your MD, DDS or dental society for referral.

Question 3

should i be concerned that my jaw made cracking noises?

Accepted Answer

YES: A normal joint is painless, noiseless and has a full range of motion.  When any of these are violated it usually means something is going wrong that will not self correct.  Conservative means are usually able to find a better jaw position and allow the structures to heal if interception is in time.  Ask you dentist for help or a referral and the sooner the better.

Question 4

what could cause jaw cracking?

Accepted Answer

Articular disc: The cracking or clicking noise that you hear when opening and/or closing your mouth is the mandibular condyle riding over the articular disc or meniscus which is out of its proper position in the glenoid  fossa.

Question 5

why do i do a cracking/popping noise with my jaw?

Accepted Answer

TMJ PROBLEMS: This is probably from your temporal mandibular joint also known as your TMJ. It can become inflamed and irritated and cause a snapping or popping sound while chewing. If painful make an appointment to see a dentist or other medical professional that specializes in TMJ treatments.

Question 6

my jaw keeps popping/cracking. what does this mean?

Accepted Answer

TMD: This is a result of the internal disc in one or both of your tmjoints getting trapped as you open and\or close your mouth. See a dentist with extensive training and experience treating patients who have temporomandibular joint dysfunction for some palliative and conservative treatment suggestions.

Question 7

my jaw is cracking and popping when i chew. please help?

Accepted Answer

Jaw joint noise: The joint itself is very mobile and the disk in it is very mobile as well. The disk is out of proper position, as the disk attachments have been stretched. These tissues (bone and disk) moving in an inflamed joint cause joint noise indicating "sticky" inflamed tissues . Management is usually nsaids and muscle relaxants but if pain or decreased function is severe, joint lavage may really help.

Question 8

jaw has been cracking for at least 5 years. what can help?

Accepted Answer

TMJ issue: It sounds like you're having a TMJ problem. Please look for my tip on TMJ strengthening exercises. Also, soft diet may help. A bite guard that can be purchased over-the-counter and worn at night helps protect it while you're asleep and have no control over its movements. 
Naproxen or Ibuprofen help reduce inflammation and local heat may help reduce muscle spasm. If no relief, see doc.

Question 9

jaw cracking very loudly on both sides now, any suggestions?

Accepted Answer

See your dentist: You are exhibiting TMJ problems.  The bottom line is that as your jaw is moving, as it should, there is a disc to help the jaw motion (like a teflon pad) and this is or getting ready to be damaged.  There are many reasons that this has gotten to this point but the bottom line is you need to seek help before you start (and you will) getting worse/.

Question 10

had tmj for 30 years but now my jaw cracking!?

Accepted Answer

TMJ: Have you had a night guard from age 13? Has the cause of your TMJ been diagnosed? Have you had orthodontic treatment?  You should see your dentist to diagnose the cause of your TMJ (born with a malformed joint, need for orthodontics, stress). 99% of cases can be treated with a night guard, please see your dentist.

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Doctor answers about:

Why does my jaw keep cracking

A member asked:

Why does my jaw keep cracking?

A member asked:

My jaw is stiff, is it okay for me to be cracking it?

A member asked:

Should i be concerned that my jaw made cracking noises?

A member asked:

What could cause jaw cracking?

A member asked:

Why do i do a cracking/popping noise with my jaw?

A member asked:

My jaw keeps popping/cracking. what does this mean?

A member asked:

My jaw is cracking and popping when i chew. please help?

A member asked:

Jaw has been cracking for at least 5 years. what can help?

A member asked:

Jaw cracking very loudly on both sides now, any suggestions?

A member asked:

Had tmj for 30 years but now my jaw cracking!?

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